Meet Michigan’s floating post office: How mail gets to Great Lakes freighters

Detroit’s J.W. Westcott Co. has delivered mail to Great Lakes freighters since 1874, starting with rowboat messages and now operating as a full-service floating post office with its own ZIP code, 48222.
From Amazon packages to handwritten letters, the boat connects crews to the outside world as they pass through the Detroit River, using a distinctive "mail in the pail" system, where buckets are tied to ropes and hoisted up and down ship sides to transfer mail between vessels.
Take a look inside the unique operation:










See what new members are saying about why they donated to Bridge Michigan:
- “In order for this information to be accurate and unbiased it must be underwritten by its readers, not by special interests.” - Larry S.
- “Not many other media sources report on the topics Bridge does.” - Susan B.
- “Your journalism is outstanding and rare these days.” - Mark S.
If you want to ensure the future of nonpartisan, nonprofit Michigan journalism, please become a member today. You, too, will be asked why you donated and maybe we'll feature your quote next time!